Consultation Overview

Consultation form

A consultation survey form (see Appendix A) was developed to capture a combination of quantitative and qualitative information, allowing respondents to share their views on the impact assessment screening reports and provide feedback to inform the development of the Cycling Framework.

One survey form was created with each impact assessment addressed through a specific section of the form. It was recognised that some of the survey questions would not be directly relevant to all, and therefore, respondents were encouraged to comment on the specific strategic policies of most relevance with the opportunity to skip questions.

The survey form adhered to best practice principles of survey design following guidance available from Delib and the Scottish Government. It was designed to be compliant with the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR).

Consultation dates and duration

The consultation was open to the public and stakeholders from the 26^th September to the19^th December 2022. The consultation was carried out over this period to give respondents adequate time to review the impact assessment reports and consultation form and provide their responses.

Methods of responding

The consultation form was accessible online via the Scottish Government’s consultation hub, Citizen Space. Consultees unable to complete the consultation using online methods were given the option of alternative means by contacting Transport Scotland. Respondents were made aware that the Scottish Government is subject to the provisions of the Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 and would therefore have to consider any request made to it under the Act for information relating to responses made to the consultation. Respondents were directed to the Scottish Government’s privacy policy for information on how personal data would be handled as part of this consultation.

Responses

Overall, the consultation received a total of 68 responses across the SEQIA, ICIA and BRIA assessments. The split across the three assessments was as follows:

• SEQIA - 37 responses;
• ICIA - 14 responses; and
• BRIA - 17 responses.

Though the majority of respondents did not consent to their details being published, comments were received from a wide range of individuals, organisations and across a broad selection of actions within the Framework. All comments received in response to the three impact assessments are listed in Appendix A. Those who chose not to be identified are listed as “withheld”, while organisations who consented to being identified are listed below:

• Aberdeen City Council
• MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit
• Mobility and Access Committee for Scotland
• Sustrans Scotland
• MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit
• Edinburgh Access Panel

Survey analysis

At the end of the consultation period, completed consultation forms were reviewed and any confidential information redacted by Transport Scotland, in line with GDPR requirements. All email responses were also uploaded to Citizen Space.

Consultation analysis has focused on the qualitative feedback received. This has involved reviewing each submission individually, identifying and categorising the points raised in feedback and taking actions relevant to the assessment.